Which DLC should I start with Witcher 3?

Which DLC should I start with The Witcher 3?

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, developed by CD Projekt Red, is an action-packed open-world RPG that received widespread critical acclaim. It offers a rich storyline with memorable characters, engaging quests, and a vast array of skills and abilities for players to master. Furthermore, the game’s success is largely attributed to the introduction of its two paid DLCs, Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine, which expanded the gameplay and story of the game.

The Recommended Playing Order

For the uninitiated, the official recommendation is to play the main story, followed by Hearts of Stone, and finally Blood and Wine. This order allows for an uninterrupted narrative flow and offers a more cohesive experience for the player. However, we’ll delve deeper into each DLC and its suggested play order.

Why Hearts of Stone?

Hearts of Stone, the first DLC of the two, offers a more linear experience compared to Blood and Wine. This smaller DLC is designed to have a more focused narrative and fewer side quests. Therefore, it’s best suited for players who prefer a more streamlined experience.

In terms of story, Hearts of Stone takes place approximately halfway through the main quest and is set in Toussaint, a completely new region. This standalone DLC features a new world to explore, new skills to master, and some unforgettable characters.

Should You Play Hearts of Stone Before or After the Main Quest?

The million-dollar question is, should you play Hearts of Stone before or after completing the main story? Heads or Tails, we recommend playing the Hearts of Stone DLC after returning from Skellige**, which is the second significant continent in the game.

Here’s a rough estimation of the playtime:
• Main Story: approximately 50-60 hours
• Skellige Quests: approximately 20-30 hours
• Hearts of Stone: approximately 10-15 hours
• Blood and Wine: approximately 20-40 hours

Blood and Wine: The Long awaited DLC

Blood and Wine, the second DLC, is significantly longer than Hearts of Stone and can be considered a full-fledged expansion. This DLC provides an entirely new world, Toussain, with its own map, quests, and plotlines. It’s crucial to note that Blood and Wine is designed to take place after the main storyline has been completed.

• Toussain, is home to the vats and the vampires, will make you question everything **.

Should I Care about Vampires and Toussain?

Vampires, a significant aspect of the Blood and Wine expansion, are not to be trifled with. Whether you’re a seasoned fighter or a stealthy tactician, you’ll have to adapt to their undead prowess. Toussain is a land of treacherous politics, intricate web of alliances, and cutthroat power struggles between factions.

In-depth Combat and Exploration

To combat the vampires and foes that inhabit Toussain, you’ll have at your disposal a plethora of skills, potions, and strategies. Explore the sun-drenched vineyards and villages, navigate the swampy forests, and discover secrets hidden within the ruins and underground caverns.

Ultimately, the choice between hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine depends on your gameplay preferences. If you seek a more streamlined experience and enjoy a focused narrative, start with Hearts of Stone. If you prefer exploration, combat, and in-depth storytelling, begin your journey with Blood and Wine.

The Witcher 3’s DLCs are thoughtfully designed to complement and expand the main story without feeling forced or unnecessary. In conclusion, start with the main story, Hearts of Stone, and end with Blood and Wine. Embark on this unforgettable adventure and experience the rich storytelling and engaging gameplay that CD Projekt Red has to offer.